Wilbur D. May Arboretum & Botanical Garden
Located within Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, the Wilbur D. May Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a unique showplace for plants and wildlife living in the transition zone between the Sierra Nevada and the Great Basin Desert. Established in 1983, the Arboretum is home to over 4,000 native and non-native plant species, and covers nearly 23 acres. Funded by the Wilbur May Foundation, the Arboretum is a tribute to philanthropist Wilbur D. May. Owned and operated by Washoe County, the Arboretum receives funding from the May Foundation, the May Arboretum Society and private donors.
These unique, high elevation gardens showcase diverse native and non-native plant communities and offer seasonal displays of spring flowering perennials, summer annuals, majestic fall colors and breathtaking vistas of the Truckee Meadows and the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. The Arboretum is a place for all ages to learn, explore and engage the senses while discovering what the plant kingdom has to offer.
Hours of Operation
Open year-round during regular park hours.
Admission
Free except during certain special events.
Accessibility
The May Arboretum grounds are composed of both paved and packed gravel paths. Paved surfaces are usually wheelchair accessible. Gravel paths may be wheelchair accessible when dry, but can become quite muddy if the weather has been wet. In the event of a snow storm, both paved and gravel paths may be temporarily inaccessible to wheelchairs and other modes of mobility.
Address/Directions
Rancho San Rafael Park
1595 N. Sierra Street
Reno, NV 89503
The Arboretum has two entry/exit points. One is most easily accessed from the parking lot located just inside the Sierra Street entrance of Rancho San Rafael Park. The other is located within the May Museum parking lot, directly across from the Washington Street entrance.
Garden Rules
- Stay on guided paths.
- Do not pick fruits, flowers, or any vegetation.
- No bicycles or motorized vehicles allowed.
- No pets allowed with the exception of service animals.
- No amplified music or sound allowed.
- If you are having professional photos taken, please review the policy on Photography Permits before visiting.
Contact Us
Office phone number: (775) 785-4153
Horticulturist: Luke Sorenson, ISA Certified Arborist
Horticulture Assistant: Bradon Franklin, ISA Certified Arborist
For Garden/Facility Reservations, email reserveparks@washoecounty.gov or call (775) 823-6501.
